The Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) recently played host to the Generation Unlimited (Gen-U) Employability Workshop, a collaborative initiative aimed at equipping young people in Palapye with the skills and tools necessary to improve their employability.
The workshop, facilitated by De Beers Group, was held in partnership with UNICEF, the Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs (MLHA), and the Ministry of Youth and Gender Affairs (MYGA). The initiative falls under the broader national agenda of creating employment opportunities and nurturing Botswana’s future workforce.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Keoagile Rafifing, BIUST Director of Development and Advancement, emphasized the significance of the initiative. “This workshop aligns with our national objective to address youth unemployment and provide tangible pathways for job seekers to transition into meaningful employment,” he said.
The event drew a large number of unemployed youth, many of whom are currently engaged in internship placements and eager to refine their professional profiles to appeal to potential employers. Entrepreneurs also took advantage of the platform, using the occasion to market their businesses and forge valuable connections with fellow business owners for possible future collaborations.
Mr. Olebile Setswamokwena, Vice President for People’s Partnership at De Beers Group, highlighted the company’s commitment to youth development, noting the availability of several initiatives including the International Graduate Development Programme, Internship Programme, and Sponsorship Programme. These are designed to identify and cultivate the untapped potential in Botswana’s youth.
One of the workshop’s key sessions was delivered by Ms. Mariska Khan, Talent Acquisition Manager at De Beers, who provided practical training on how to craft CVs that are optimized for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). She also shared valuable strategies for preparing for job interviews, helping participants better position themselves in a competitive job market.
The workshop also introduced participants to the Botswana Labour Market Observatory (BLMO), an important resource for job seekers. Mrs. Bagele Masimole, Principal Youth Officer at MYGA, urged the youth to register on the platform and keep their profiles regularly updated to increase their chances of employment. “It is important that young people remain active on the platform and make sure their skills and experiences are current and visible,” she said.
The high turnout and enthusiastic participation reaffirmed the importance of such initiatives in empowering Botswana’s youth. The workshop stands as a testament to the government’s ongoing commitment to developing a skilled and employable workforce, and to addressing the challenges of youth unemployment through strategic partnerships and targeted training.